CULTIVATING VOLUNTEERISM & COMMUNITY
The goal for the event, and its high level of volunteer involvement, is to eliminate some of the barriers people experience as they seek to access the very services that might help them start the return journey to stable lives.
The Project Connect model is unique because participants are paired 1-on-1 with volunteers who guide them to areas to receive services. Each client is paired with an individual, so clients receive one-on-one attention. Being a Guide is an amazing opportunity to get to know someone in need and make a difference in someone’s life.
The experience is transformative for volunteers as well: they see firsthand how hard it can be to live in poverty, and many are so moved by their experience that they later go on to become engaged in other ways to give back to the community.
The event helps to open their eyes to the reality of need in the community and causes them to rethink many of the stereotypes and misconceptions about poverty and homelessness.
The event is also an opportunity for service learning, and college and university students.
Volunteer Jobs and Shift Times
Click here to register as a volunteer!
Guides: Be part of an important group of volunteers that supports clients from entrance to exit. You do not have to have any experience in social service, just a desire to help those in need. Guides escort clients to the areas where they can get food, services, and appointments. You will meet and welcome your client at Intake, then take them through a structured set of questions to find the services most important to them.
Clean-up and Set-up Crew: Clean up volunteers will help us break down the event including packing and moving tables, chairs, and supplies.
Training
Because of the one-on-one nature of the event, it is important for you to have an understanding of your role and the services offered so that you can help participants as much as possible. Training for guides will be done through webinars in advance of the event. Training for all other roles are done on-site.
Important Reminders
*Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled shift
*Volunteers are asked to be flexible as roles may need to be adjusted to accommodate the needs of participants
*Volunteers must be 18 years old to participate